Objective:
Objective 1: Identify and characterize the microbial genes that are involved in the attachment, colonization and survival of enteric pathogens on produce. Objective 2: Determine the genetic and biochemical factors in plants that effect the attachment, growth and survival of human pathogens in/on plants. Objective 3: Assess the role of other microflora and aerosols in survival and transmission of enteric pathogens in agricultural environments. Objective 4: Develop methods for the detection of enteric viral and bacterial pathogens from produce and soil.

Approach:
Plant-microbe model systems in combination population studies, molecular methods, genomics, and microscopy, will be used to investigate the interaction of human pathogens with plants and plant-associated bacteria, as well as to develop improved methods for detection of human pathogens on produce.